HYDROXYLATION OF BENZENE WITH NITROUS-OXIDE ON H-GA-ZSM5 ZEOLITE

A H-Ga-ZSM5 zeolite catalyst was applied for gas phase hydroxylation o f benzene to phenol with nitrous oxide as oxidant. In a wide range of temperatures and partial pressures phenol was the main product. Up to reactor temperatures of 400 degrees C benzoquinone was the main by-pro duct. Above 400 degrees C total oxidation of benzene started. Increasi ng partial pressures of benzene and particularly of nitrous oxide led to an increase of the reaction rate. Selectivity to the main product p henol was strongly affected by the benzene feed concentration. Rising benzene partial pressure led to increasing selectivity to phenol.